Planning to travel this summer but concerned about costs? With rising travel expenses, many people are looking for budget-friendly ways to vacation without sacrificing relaxation and entertainment. That’s where a staycation comes in—it offers all the benefits of a getaway while keeping costs low and convenience high.
“It’s fun to visit an exotic location on vacation, but during rougher economic times, a staycation can save you a lot of money while being just as memorable,” says Chip Lupo, WalletHub Analyst. “Not only do you avoid the cost of overnight accommodations and minimize travel costs, but you can also discover all kinds of fun activities close to home that you might not have tried out otherwise. Plus, you’ll feel more rested if you spend less time in transit and more time sleeping in your own bed.”
You might be surprised that your local cities offer plenty of wallet-friendly ways to unwind. To determine the best U.S. cities for staycations, WalletHub analyzed more than 180 cities across 41 key metrics—considering everything from the number of parks per capita to restaurant-meal costs. Their study highlights destinations where you can relax, explore, and indulge without breaking the bank.
So, if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy summer while maximizing fun, these top staycation spots might be just what you need.
Top 10 Best U.S. Cities for Staycations
WalletHub’s study highlights the top 10 U.S. cities that offer the perfect mix of affordability, entertainment, and relaxation—ideal for a memorable staycation.
Let’s examine why the top three cities offer such a wonderful staycation experience.
Why Cincinnati is the Ultimate Staycation Destination
As longtime residents of the greater Cincinnati area, Julie and I have always known how special this city is—it’s no surprise it ranks as the best U.S. city for staycations. Whether exploring scenic parks, indulging in local flavors, or diving into entertainment, there’s always something memorable to experience here.
Cincinnati offers a fantastic mix of outdoor recreation, dining, and entertainment, making it easy to enjoy a fresh and exciting staycation. With parks, swimming pools, and baseball fields scattered throughout the city, staying active while soaking in the charm of the Queen City is effortless.
Beyond its natural beauty, Cincinnati has become a go-to destination for food lovers. The city boasts affordable restaurants rated 4.5 stars or higher, making it easy to treat yourself without splurging. Stopping at a local beer garden or grabbing a scoop from one of the city’s beloved ice cream shops is practically a tradition for us—simple pleasures that make a staycation feel as special as a getaway.
For family-friendly outings, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden continues to amaze, consistently earning its spot as one of the nation’s best zoos. Meanwhile, downtown Cincinnati is a cultural playground, chock full of history, art, and architecture.
And if you’re craving a little adrenaline, Kings Island is just a short drive away in Mason. This iconic amusement park delivers world-class thrill rides, captivating shows, and nostalgia-filled fun, making Cincinnati a well-rounded destination for an unforgettable staycation.
Orlando: The Ultimate Staycation Playground
Orlando ranks as the second-best city for a staycation, thanks to its unparalleled variety of entertainment options. With many amusement parks, water parks, nightlife hotspots, festivals, zoos, and arcades per capita, it’s easy to plan a week filled with unique and exciting outings every day.
Epic Universe, one of the newest and most anticipated attractions, is a groundbreaking theme park set to redefine immersive experiences. This addition further cements Orlando’s reputation as a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Beyond entertainment, Orlando is also a haven for food lovers. The city boasts an impressive selection of affordable restaurants rated 4.5 stars or higher, offering diverse cuisines to satisfy any craving. And when the summer heat kicks in, locals and visitors can cool off at one of the city’s many ice cream shops, making every staycation feel like a true escape.
Las Vegas: A Staycation Filled with Entertainment and Excitement
Las Vegas is the third-best city for a staycation, offering a dynamic mix of outdoor recreation, entertainment, and relaxation. Whether you prefer golf, basketball, swimming, hiking, or biking, the city provides ample opportunities to stay active while enjoying its stunning desert scenery.
Of course, Vegas is best known for its world-class casinos, perfect for those looking to test their luck. But beyond the slot machines and card tables, the city boasts plenty of arcades, making it a fun destination for adventure seekers and those craving a bit of nostalgic entertainment.
For a more laid-back experience, Las Vegas features many spas, offering the perfect way to unwind during a staycation. And when it comes to dining, the city delivers affordable, high-quality restaurants, ensuring visitors can indulge in delicious meals without stretching their budget.
From adrenaline-fueled excitement to relaxing escapes, Las Vegas proves that a staycation here can be as thrilling as a traditional vacation.
Beyond the Top 10: More Staycation Rankings to Explore
Did your city miss the top ten? Don’t worry—there’s more to the study! Your backyard might still offer plenty of staycation-worthy experiences.
One of the best aspects of WalletHub’s research is that it ranks cities beyond their overall score. You can explore the top U.S. cities for recreation, food & entertainment, and rest & relaxation—allowing you to see where your hometown shines.
Let’s dive in and see if your city stands out in one of these key categories!
Top 5 U.S. Cities for Recreation
Looking for adventure close to home? These top U.S. cities excel in recreation, offering plenty of ways to stay active and entertained without traveling far.
Top 5 U.S. Cities for Food & Entertainment
These cities offer the perfect mix of delicious dining and exciting entertainment, making them top spots for a staycation filled with flavor and fun.
Top 5 U.S. Cities for Rest & Relaxation
These cities excel in relaxation for the ultimate unwind, offering tranquil escapes, soothing experiences, and the perfect environment for a stress-free staycation.
Staycation Tips from an Expert
A staycation isn’t just about staying home—it’s about experiencing your city freshly and intentionally. The key difference between a staycation and business as usual lies in how you spend your time, embracing new activities and perspectives within familiar surroundings.
To help maximize your staycation experience, WalletHub consulted Yating (Tina) Liang, Ph.D., Professor of Hospitality Leadership at Missouri State University. Here are her expert insights.
Have staycations become more popular due to inflation? Yes! With economic uncertainties, people tend to stay closer to home rather than travel far due to rising travel expenses. You can just have as much fun with staycations as you do with places far away. It’s what you make out of it: the quality leisure time!
What are the best ways to enjoy a staycation? Just like any vacation, it’s about relaxing and recharging. Focusing on reconnecting with oneself and/or others. Try something NEW!
What activities can families do locally without breaking the bank? Go to a local park for a picnic or a bike ride, visit local museums or art galleries, browse/shop at local farmers market, try a new restaurant, go camping at nearby campgrounds, go fishing at a local lake/river.
What is the best time of year to have a staycation? Anytime!
Staycation Magic: Making the Most of Your Hometown
Even if your city didn’t rank well, there are plenty of ways to create a memorable staycation close to home. Whether exploring local attractions, dining at a new restaurant, or unwinding at a nearby park, an extraordinary staycation is about embracing what’s around you. Where would you go for the perfect staycation?
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